Linn Run State Park

Rector, Pennsylvania
Established 1950
612 acres

Linn Run State Park encompasses 612 acres in Westmoreland County along Linn Run stream in the Laurel Highlands. The park features Grove Run and Linn Run, both excellent native trout streams flowing through hemlock and hardwood forests. The park is known for its rustic atmosphere, excellent fishing, and connection to Forbes State Forest's extensive trail system. Linn Run offers a peaceful mountain retreat with camping, swimming in a natural stream pool, and access to wilderness hiking. The park serves as a gateway to the Laurel Highlands and connects to the popular Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail.

Entrance Fee

Free

Visiting with Dogs

Linn Run: leashed dogs allowed on all trails and campground; no dogs in swimming area; supervise dogs near swift streams.

Visitor Tips & Reviews

What Visitors Say

Rustic, peaceful, 'undiscovered' escape with excellent trout fishing, cold natural swim, great hiking, vivid fall colors, primitive camping, remote solitude.

Tips from Visitors

  • The natural swimming area is a dammed section of Linn Run - water is cold and refreshing even in summer
  • Linn Run and Grove Run offer excellent native brook trout fishing - PA fishing license required
  • The campground is rustic with no showers or electric hookups - perfect for primitive camping enthusiasts
  • Access the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail directly from the park for day hikes or backpacking trips
  • Fall foliage season is spectacular in the Laurel Highlands - late September through October
  • Winter access can be difficult - the park road may not be plowed during heavy snow

Amenities

RestroomsParkingPicnic AreasCampingStream Swimming

Nearby Attractions

Explore these attractions near Linn Run State Park:

  • Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail
    70-mile backpacking trail from Ohiopyle to Conemaugh Gorge with shelters and spectacular ridge-top views
    Within the park
  • Fort Ligonier
    Reconstructed French and Indian War fort with museum and annual reenactments
    8 miles away
  • Idlewild & SoakZone
    Historic amusement park founded in 1878, perfect for families with young children
    10 miles away

Things to Do at Linn Run State Park

FishingHikingCampingSwimmingCross-Country SkiingWildlife Viewing

Hiking Trails

Grove Run Trail

Moderate

Loop trail with red blazes following Grove Run stream through hemlock forest. Starts with gentle slope behind Grove Run Picnic Area and becomes progressively steeper. Most popular trail in the park.

3.9 mi
2.5-3 hours
816 ft gain
Moderate difficulty

Adams Falls Trail

Moderate

Rocky loop trail featuring a stunning 15-foot waterfall tucked among rhododendron and hemlock. Passes by large boulders with dramatic rock formations. Very popular destination.

1 mi
45 minutes to 1 hour
200 ft gain
Moderate difficulty

Flat Rock Trail

Easy

Easy trail along Linn Run stream featuring remnants of the historic McGinnis Rod and Gun Club. Ends at a large smooth rock in the stream, perfect for families.

4,224 ft
30-45 minutes
50 ft gain
Easy difficulty

Iscrupe Trail

Easy

Loop trail with yellow blazes following the original Linn Run Road. Easiest trail in the park, suitable for all skill levels and families with children.

3,960 ft
30 minutes
75 ft gain
Easy difficulty

Directions

Linn Run State Park is located in Westmoreland County off PA Route 381. From the north, take I-76 (Pennsylvania Turnpike) to Exit 91 (Ligonier), then follow US Route 30 east to Ligonier. From Ligonier, take PA Route 381 south for approximately 6 miles, then turn left onto Linn Run Road. Follow Linn Run Road for 3 miles to the park. From the south (Ohiopyle area), take PA Route 381 north, then turn right onto Linn Run Road. The park is remote with limited cell service. GPS users should use: 182 Linn Run Road, Rector, PA 15677.